Maryland, December 20, 2025
Governor Wes Moore has announced a remarkable $69.5 million investment aimed at revitalizing communities across Maryland. The funding will be used to enhance local economies, promote affordable housing, and improve public infrastructure, especially in underserved areas. A significant focus will be on the Just Communities initiative, which targets historically excluded neighborhoods. This initiative aims to support various projects aimed at boosting economic growth, community development, and social equity across the state.
Governor Moore Announces $69.5 Million Investment for Maryland Community Revitalization
Aiming to Enhance Local Economies, Affordable Housing, and Infrastructure
ANNAPOLIS, MD — In a significant move to spark economic growth, Governor Wes Moore has unveiled a $69.5 million investment for Fiscal Year 2026 dedicated to revitalizing communities across Maryland. This funding is designed to stimulate local economies, promote affordable housing, and improve essential public infrastructure, particularly in underserved areas.
The investment will be orchestrated through six revitalization programs facilitated by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Among these programs are the Strategic Demolition Fund, the Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative, Community Legacy, the Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Fund, and the Maryland Façade Improvement Program. This initiative aims to support county and municipal governments, along with community development organizations and local partners, in their missions to uplift their neighborhoods.
Focus on Just Communities Initiative
A noteworthy portion of the total funding—$40.2 million—is designated for the Just Communities initiative, which specifically targets 419 census tracts that have experienced historical exclusionary policies, including redlining and urban renewal projects that has historically displaced residents. The initiative focuses on improving areas marked by high incarceration rates, elevated asthma rates tied to environmental issues, nearby hazardous waste sites, and records of racially restrictive covenants and exclusionary zoning.
Examples of Funded Projects
The funding will support a variety of projects across the state, including:
- Garrett County Arts Council, Inc.: $200,000 for acquiring key downtown properties for arts-based revitalization, enhancing economic growth, education opportunities, tourism, and community development.
- Garrett County Community Action Committee, Inc.: $75,000 to further the Garrett County Façade Improvement Program.
- Cambridge: Development of the Packing House as a center for oyster processing and ecological exhibits.
- Salisbury: Infrastructure enhancements for a new mixed-use retail and residential building.
- Oakland: Acquisition of downtown properties aimed at creating an arts revitalization district.
- College Park: Down payment assistance for homebuyers and funding for critical home repairs for elderly residents.
- Pikesville: Transformation of the historic 14-acre Armory into a workforce development makerspace.
- Baltimore City: Rehabilitation of vacant buildings for affordable housing and community facility creation.
Long-term Economic Benefits
Governor Moore has stressed that fostering a resilient, affordable, and competitive Maryland starts at the grassroots level. By investing in local visions, these funding allocations are poised to boost small businesses, expand housing opportunities, and lay a robust Foundation for enduring economic prosperity.
According to analysis from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, every dollar channeled through these revitalization programs is projected to generate $18 in local economic activity. This significant multiplier effect not only supports small businesses but also fosters long-term private investments in the community.
Explore Further
For those interested in exploring more about the Fiscal Year 2026 awards and the various projects that have received funding, additional details can be found on the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the total amount of funding announced by Governor Wes Moore for community revitalization projects in Maryland?
How many community revitalization projects will benefit from this funding?
Which state revitalization programs are administering this funding?
What is the Just Communities initiative, and how much funding is allocated to it?
Can you provide examples of specific projects receiving funding?
- Garrett County Arts Council, Inc.: $200,000 for the acquisition of key downtown properties to advance arts-based revitalization, supporting economic growth, education, tourism, and community enrichment.
- Garrett County Community Action Committee, Inc.: $75,000 to continue the Garrett County Façade Improvement Program.
- Cambridge: Development of the Packing House into a center for oyster processing and ecological exhibits.
- Salisbury: Infrastructure support for a new mixed-use retail and residential building.
- Oakland: Acquisition of downtown properties to create an arts revitalization district.
- College Park: Down payment assistance for homebuyers and funding for essential home repairs for elderly residents.
- Pikesville: Transformation of the historic 14-acre Armory into a workforce development makerspace.
- Baltimore City: Rehabilitation of vacant buildings to create affordable housing and community facilities.
What is the estimated economic impact of this investment?
Where can I find more information about the Fiscal Year 2026 awards and the specific projects funded?
Key Features of the Maryland Community Revitalization Investment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Funding | $69.5 million for Fiscal Year 2026 |
| Number of Projects | 226 community revitalization projects across Maryland |
| Administering Programs | Strategic Demolition Fund, Baltimore Regional Neighborhood Initiative, Community Legacy, Seed Community Development Anchor Institution Fund, Maryland Façade Improvement Program |
| Just Communities Initiative Funding | $40.2 million allocated to 419 census tracts |
| Estimated Economic Impact | Every dollar invested is estimated to generate $18 in local economic activity |
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